General John Hunt Morgan was born in Huntsville, Alabama on June 1, 1825. When Morgan first joined the Confederate Army he served under General Simon B. Buckner, and was promoted to Colonel of the second Kentucky cavalry on April 4, 1862. He was promoted to Brigadier General on December 11, 1862. He became known as one of the most legendary Confederate commanders, known for his various raiding parties. General Morgan was a picture perfect cavalry fighter, much like
JEB Stuart. Morgan was a perfect Southern gentlemen even during battle. Even though Morgan didn't have much formal military training he possessed an instinctive talent that made up for his lack of training.

John Morgan

He was a fearless leader and he quickly earned the respect of his men. General Morgan operated mainly in the Western theater under Major
General Joseph Wheeler, he was famous for his raids into Tennessee and Kentucky. In July of 1862 General Morgan and his men began raids in Kentucky that lasted three weeks while being chased by Federal troops, but were never captured. In July of 1863 General Morgan and his men took part in their final raid, during a twenty-four day ride into Southern Indiana and Ohio, which ended when General Morgan was captured. Morgan was sent to the Ohio Penitentiary, where he escaped. General
John Hunt Morgan was shot and killed in a surprise attack by Federal cavalry at Greeneville, Tennessee on September 3, 1864. General Morgan is buried in Lexington Cemetery in Lexington, Kentucky.

Many thanks to Mr. Gabe Weaver for Writing and Submitting this Biography.

Site Copyright 2003-2014 Son of the
South.
For Questions or comments about this collection,